This blog is designed to exchange ideas about how to dramatically cut your gear weight to make tramping (hiking) trips less strenuous, but still remain safe and sensible. Subscribe, make comments, ask for advice, or share your lightweight gear experiences with our community.
The header photo features me on Kay's Creek Saddle. The pack is the 45Lt Zpacks Arc Blast, hiking poles Helinox FL120 and watch a Suunto Vector.

25 Jan 2016

I am off to USA for a conference in two weeks. This is a great time to buy ultra lightweight gear and get delivered to my hotel. Only two item on my list. A replacement pair of Lone Peaks (new 2.5 model). I love these shoes, all-time favourites (and I have had a few shoes over the years!). These are like tramping in slippers! I love the wide toe box and zero drop - With my reconstructed back, I am sure it helps (or encourages me) to walk more upright.

Oh, and yes, the other item. A Tenkara fishing rod - Fresh trout on a tramping trip appeals. This is an ancient way of Japanese fishing that is taking the hiking community is the USA by storm. Lightweigh and simple, so I want to try it. Check it out at Tenkara Bum

16 Jan 2016

Having had two 'nasties' cut out of my body recently, I have become 'sun obsessive'.

On our recent Xmas/New Year tramping trip, Kathy and Hideo wore gloves to protect the back of their hands from sun damage. I was plastered in lotion, but still felt the burn.

On my return, I pledged to do some research and get gloves. One could take the budget route and get some basic white cotton dress gloves and cut the fingers off, but getting purpose made is not expensive, $40 from Bivouac NZ. For overseas readers, go to Amazon.

I got a pair of OR Spectrum Sun Gloves. 50+ UPF. They have a long wrist, so mitigate skin expose between shirt sleeve and hand when reaching out (walking poles). They are breathable and made of wicking stretch polyester fabric. This makes them quick drying.

Another feature is the silicone grip dots on the palm. good for those (like me) that use walking poles - no slip.

Dare I mention the weight! 19 grams!

On the subject of gloves, I once saw a tramper on a wet, cold trip wearing dish washing gloves. Not a bad idea, I'd suggest getting oversize to help get them on and off easier. I have also read about others who wear surgical gloves for wet weather travel. This might put the fear of God into your fellow trampers who may not quite be ready for a prostate check on the trail!.

9 Jan 2016

Evidence that carrying a needle and dental floss comes in handy. I tripped and got my shoe caught on a razor sharp piece of rock (lucky it wasn't the leg!). May not look 'seamstress' quality, but it worked really well.

About Rob McKay

I'm a member of the Upper Clutha (UCTC) and Auckland Tramping clubs (ATC) and a have been an active tramper (Hiker) from boyhood and Boy Scouts. About 10 years ago I began my journey into ultralight weight hiking. Most of my multi day trips I never exceed 8 to 10Kgs (base weight 4Kgs) recently doing the John Muir Trail in the High Sierras and ATC 10 day Xmas trips with 10Kgs. I am a self-confessed gear addict! I have a passion for wine and viticulture. I am an Industrial/Organisational Psychologist, and published author. I enjoy talking and researching lightweight gear, so feel free to contact me for suggestions and advice at lightweightrob@gmail.com